Arts and Culture

From a locally run bookstore to music festivals and art galleries, Vail, Colorado is the epicenter of local art and culture in the Rocky Mountains. A vibrant local community with artists and connoisseurs, along with a diverse group of visitors each year, make Vail a destination that keeps giving, even off the slopes.

Humming Vail Nightlife
From karaoke to highly trained sommeliers and everything in-between, Vail comes alive after dark. Meet new friends and reconnect with old ones as you dance the night away or share your day’s adventures over cold drinks and in front of a crackling fire. There are plenty of local bars and clubs to choose from, depending on the atmosphere that suits your evening plans.

Want to go dancing?
Visit Sandbar in West Vail and meet the locals, or head over to Bridge Street and go to The Club, a young party scene, or to Whiskey Jack’s for a night of singing and hitting the dance floor.

Want to hear live music in Vail?
Visit The Red Lion, a quintessential Vail ski bar with live music on Bridge Street, or head over to The Club, for a livelier crowd. If a sports bar is more what you had in mind, make sure you visit Sandbar Sports Grill in West Vail to hear live music from touring bands and enjoy their late night menu.

Need a stiff drink?
Join the refined crowd at Pepi’s and listen to live music on a heated deck, or hang out with Vail’s ski patrollers at Vendetta’s. Bart & Yeti’s has been around for years and offers a down-to-earth gathering spot, or head over to The Bully Ranch and enjoy Colorado cuisine and specialty drinks. To be at the center of it all, check out Tap Room, or get away from it all and find a quiet spot at The George.

Exploring Vail’s Art Scene
Visit Art in Vail for exclusive information about local showings, exhibits, and Art in Public Places. There is also a complete list of local arts news events and photo galleries of current and past exhibits in Vail.

Music Comes Alive in Vail
Visit Bravo!Vail for information about the upcoming music festival in Vail, Colorado, a tradition for more than two decades. Information about dates/times, purchasing tickets, and volunteering can also be found on the site.

Books, Magazines, Cozy Seating and Warm Conversations
Check out The Bookworm at the River Walk for a quaint bookstore with bright natural light, charming décor, delicious coffee and food, and a great selection of books that the owners would be happy to help you peruse. Personalized attention is one of the store’s specialties, as well as a fully-stocked kids section. Stop by The Bookworm to buy a book you’ll enjoy curling up next to the fire and reading after a day on the slopes. Or, stop by for a fresh smoothie on a warm summer’s day and pick up a copy of your favorite newspaper.